What is The Manila Times and what is its historical significance in the Philippines?

The Manila Times is the oldest continuously published English-language newspaper in the Philippines. It was founded on October 11, 1898, making it a significant historical publication in the country's media landscape.

When was The Manila Times established and what historical event was occurring at that time?

The Manila Times was founded on October 11, 1898. This was shortly after news emerged that the Treaty of Paris would be signed, which would conclude the Spanish-American War and transfer the Philippines from Spanish to American sovereignty.

Who was the founder of The Manila Times and what was the initial purpose of the newspaper?

The Manila Times was founded by Thomas Gowan, an Englishman residing in the Philippines. The newspaper was initially intended to serve the American soldiers sent to Manila to fight in the Spanish-American War, as most existing newspapers were in Spanish or local languages.

Describe the physical format and content of the first issue of The Manila Times.

The inaugural issue of The Manila Times, published on October 11, 1898, consisted of two leaves, totaling four pages. Each page measured approximately 12 by 8 inches and was divided into two columns. The first page featured announcements and advertisements, the second page contained editorials, and the third page presented cable news related to the Spanish-American War from Europe and the United States.

How did ownership of The Manila Times change in its early years?

Following its founding, The Manila Times saw several ownership changes. George Sellner acquired the paper from Thomas Gowan in 1899. An American businessman bought it in 1902, with Sellner reacquiring it in 1905. Thomas C. Kinney then purchased the newspaper from Sellner in 1907.

When did The Manila Times relocate its headquarters, and what prompted the move?

The Manila Times moved its headquarters from Escolta Street to the Cosmopolitan Building on July 25, 1914. Later, after the Cosmopolitan Building was destroyed by fire on December 10, 1928, the newspaper's headquarters were relocated to Intramuros.

Who were some notable figures who owned or were associated with The Manila Times during the Commonwealth period?

Manuel L. Quezon, who would later become the Philippine President during the Commonwealth period, acquired The Manila Times in 1919 and owned it until 1921. Subsequently, sugar magnate George Fairchild acquired the paper, and in 1926, Jacob Rosenthal purchased it from Fairchild.

When did The Manila Times first cease publication, and when did it resume?

The Manila Times was first shut down on March 15, 1930. It remained closed until 1945, when it reopened after World War II.

What significant political event led to the second closure of The Manila Times, and who was its owner at the time?

The second closure of The Manila Times occurred on September 23, 1972, when President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law under Proclamation No. 1081. This order led to the closure of media establishments across the country, including The Manila Times, and resulted in the arrest of its owner, Chino Roces.

When did The Manila Times reopen after the martial law period, and what political transition occurred around that time?

The Manila Times reopened on February 5, 1986, a few days before the People Power Revolution, which successfully ousted Ferdinand Marcos and led to the installation of Corazon Aquino as president.

Who acquired The Manila Times after the death of Chino Roces, and who acquired it subsequently?

After Chino Roces' death on September 30, 1988, the newspaper was acquired by businessman John Gokongwei in 1989. Later, on May 14, 2001, Mark Jimenez acquired the paper, and he subsequently sold it to Dante Ang on August 8, 2001.

What controversy did The Manila Times face in 1999 involving President Joseph Estrada?

In 1999, The Manila Times published a story describing President Joseph Estrada as an "unwitting godfather" in a deal between the National Power Corporation and an Argentine firm, IMPSA. This led President Estrada to file a libel suit against the newspaper, prompting an apology on its front page and the resignation of its editors and writers.

When was The Manila Times acquired by Katrina Legarda and Reghis Romero, and what happened shortly thereafter?

The Manila Times was acquired by Katrina Legarda and Reghis Romero on July 20, 1999. Following this acquisition, the newspaper was shut down for the third time on July 23, 1999, before reopening on October 11, 1999.

What is the current ownership structure of The Manila Times?

The current publisher, president, chief executive officer (CEO), and executive editor of The Manila Times is Dante Francis "Klink" Ang II. His maternal grandfather had a connection to the paper as a linotypist in the 1950s.

What role did Dante Ang, chairman emeritus of The Manila Times, hold in the government?

On May 1, 2017, Dante Ang, the chairman emeritus of The Manila Times, was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as a special envoy of the President for international public relations.

What was the circulation of The Manila Times as of 2012, and how did it rank among Philippine newspapers?

As of 2012, The Manila Times reported a circulation of 120,700. At that time, it was considered to have the fourth-largest circulation among newspapers in the Philippines, trailing the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, and The Philippine Star, but surpassing the Manila Standard.

What is the stated political alignment of The Manila Times?

The Manila Times is described as having a centre-right political alignment.

What language is The Manila Times published in?

The Manila Times is published in English.

Where are the headquarters of The Manila Times located?

The editorial and administrative offices of The Manila Times are located at 2/F Sitio Grande Building, 409 A. Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines.

What is the ISSN and OCLC number for The Manila Times?

The ISSN for The Manila Times is 0116-3558, and its OCLC number is 31041091.

What supplement did The Manila Times launch in July 2006, and who was its intended audience?

In July 2006, Dante Ang established a monthly supplement called 'The Moro Times.' This supplement was specifically created to cater to a Muslim ("Moro") readership.

What recent legal action was taken against The Manila Times in April 2025?

In April 2025, The Manila Times was sued for cyberlibel by House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe. The lawsuit stemmed from a report detailing a document allegedly signed by Dalipe concerning a plot by the House of Representatives, titled 'Oplan Horus,' aimed at undermining former president Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte.

Who are some of the former notable columnists mentioned for The Manila Times?

Former notable columnists listed for The Manila Times include Arnold Clavio, Ernesto Herrera, Rene Saguisag, and Ali Sotto.

What is the significance of the masthead tagline 'Trusted since 1898' for The Manila Times?

The tagline 'Trusted since 1898' on The Manila Times masthead emphasizes its long history and aims to convey a sense of reliability and enduring presence in the Philippine media landscape, dating back to its founding year.

What does the term 'broadsheet' refer to in the context of The Manila Times?

The term 'broadsheet' indicates the large physical format of The Manila Times newspaper, which is typically characterized by its substantial page size and is often associated with more formal news reporting compared to smaller tabloid formats.

How many issues of The Manila Times have been published as of its founding date?

As of its founding date, The Manila Times had published 46,371 issues, indicating a long and consistent publication history leading up to that point.

What was the primary reason for the initial establishment of The Manila Times according to the text?

The primary reason for the initial establishment of The Manila Times was to serve the American soldiers who were sent to Manila during the Spanish-American War, as there was a need for an English-language publication catering to this demographic.

What happened to The Manila Times' headquarters in 1928?

In 1928, the Cosmopolitan Building, which housed the headquarters of The Manila Times, was destroyed by a fire. This incident necessitated the relocation of the newspaper's offices to Intramuros.

Who is the current President of The Manila Times Publishing Corp.?

Blanca C. Mercado is the current President of The Manila Times Publishing Corp.

Who serves as the Managing Editor for The Manila Times?

Leena Calso Chua serves as the President, while Lynette O. Luna is the Executive Editor, and Chin Wong is also mentioned in an executive capacity for The Manila Times.

What is the official website address for The Manila Times?

The official website for The Manila Times can be accessed at www.manilatimes.net.

What does the 'See also' section suggest regarding The Manila Times' place in Philippine media?

The 'See also' section lists other prominent Philippine newspapers such as The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Filipino Reporter, placing The Manila Times within the broader context of the nation's major news publications.

What is the significance of the 'Philippines portal' link in relation to The Manila Times?

The 'Philippines portal' link indicates that The Manila Times is a significant media entity within the Philippines, connecting it to broader information about the country's culture, politics, and society.

How did The Manila Times' circulation compare to other major newspapers in the Philippines according to the text?

According to the text, The Manila Times bills itself as having the fourth-largest circulation among newspapers in the Philippines. It is noted as surpassing the Manila Standard but falling behind the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, and The Philippine Star.

What was the context surrounding the libel suit filed against The Manila Times in 1999?

The libel suit was filed by President Joseph Estrada after The Manila Times published a story that described him as an 'unwitting godfather' in a deal involving the National Power Corporation and an Argentine firm. The publication of this story led to the lawsuit, an apology from the newspaper, and resignations of its editors and writers.

What is the significance of The Manila Times being an English-language newspaper in the Philippines?

As an English-language newspaper, The Manila Times historically served and continues to serve a segment of the Philippine population that is proficient in English, reflecting the country's colonial past and its role as a lingua franca in business, government, and media.

What does the reference to '46,371 issues' signify for The Manila Times?

The mention of '46,371 issues' signifies the sheer volume of publications The Manila Times had produced up to a certain point, underscoring its long operational history and consistent output as a daily newspaper.

Who is Dante Francis 'Klink' Ang II, and what is his role at The Manila Times?

Dante Francis 'Klink' Ang II is the current publisher, president, chief executive officer (CEO), and executive editor of The Manila Times, holding key leadership positions within the newspaper's operations.

What is the significance of The Manila Times' headquarters being located in Intramuros, Manila?

The location of The Manila Times' headquarters in Intramuros, Manila, places it within a historic walled city, a significant cultural and administrative center in the Philippines, reflecting the newspaper's deep roots in the nation's capital.

How did the Spanish-American War influence the founding of The Manila Times?

The Spanish-American War directly influenced the founding of The Manila Times by creating a need for an English-language newspaper to serve the American soldiers present in Manila. The war's conclusion, marked by the Treaty of Paris, also coincided with the newspaper's establishment, highlighting a period of significant geopolitical transition for the Philippines.

What does the inclusion of 'The Moro Times' as a supplement suggest about The Manila Times' editorial strategy?

The creation of 'The Moro Times' as a monthly supplement indicates an effort by The Manila Times to cater to specific regional or cultural demographics within the Philippines, aiming to broaden its readership and address the interests of the Muslim ("Moro") community.

What does the navbox section titled 'Defunct newspapers/magazines in the Metro Manila market' imply about the newspaper industry?

The inclusion of a list of defunct newspapers and magazines suggests that the newspaper industry in Metro Manila, like many other markets, has experienced significant changes and closures over time, reflecting market dynamics, economic challenges, or shifts in media consumption.

What is the role of the 'Media of the Philippines' and 'List of newspapers in the Philippines' links found at the bottom of the infobox?

These links serve to contextualize The Manila Times within the broader Philippine media landscape, providing readers with access to related information about the country's media industry and a comprehensive list of other newspapers operating within the Philippines.

The Manila Times Wiki: The Manila Times: A Chronicle of Philippine Journalism

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About The Manila Times

The Oldest Voice

The Manila Times stands as the oldest extant English-language newspaper in the Philippines. Established on October 11, 1898, it has navigated significant historical shifts, serving as a continuous chronicler of the nation's journey.

Publication Details

Published daily by The Manila Times Publishing Corp. (formerly La Vanguardia Publishing Corporation), the newspaper maintains its editorial and administrative offices in Intramuros, Manila. It operates as a broadsheet and primarily publishes in English.

Circulation and Reach

Currently, The Manila Times positions itself as having the fourth-largest circulation among Philippine newspapers. As of 2012, its reported circulation was 120,700 copies. It is recognized by its ISSN 0116-3558 and OCLC number 31041091.

Related Media

As a prominent publication within the Philippines, The Manila Times is part of a broader media landscape. It is listed among other major newspapers and media entities in the country, contributing to the diverse informational ecosystem.

A Century of Headlines: Historical Journey

Founding and Early Years

Founded by Englishman Thomas Gowan, The Manila Times commenced publication on October 11, 1898. Its inception coincided with the impending Treaty of Paris, marking the transfer of Philippine sovereignty from Spain to the United States. The initial format was compact, with four pages measuring approximately 12 by 8 inches, featuring announcements, editorials, and cable news.

Ownership Transitions

The newspaper has seen numerous ownership changes throughout its history. Key figures and entities involved include George Sellner, Thomas C. Kinney, Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon (1919-1921), George Fairchild, Jacob Rosenthal, Chino Roces, John Gokongwei, Katrina Legarda and Reghis Romero, Mark Jimenez, and currently, Dante Ang.

Closures and Rebirths

The Manila Times has faced significant challenges, leading to multiple closures. It was first shut down on March 15, 1930, and later reopened post-World War II. A second closure occurred on September 23, 1972, under President Ferdinand Marcos's declaration of martial law, with its owner Chino Roces arrested. The paper reopened on February 5, 1986, shortly before the People Power Revolution. A third closure happened on July 23, 1999, followed by a reopening on October 11, 1999.

Growth and Recognition

By 1950, The Manila Times achieved the distinction of being the largest circulating newspaper in the Philippines. Its enduring presence has cemented its status as a significant institution in Philippine journalism.

Key Figures in Journalism

Leadership and Editorship

The current leadership includes Blanca C. Mercado as President and Dante Francis "Klink" Ang II as Publisher, CEO, and Executive Editor. Key editorial roles are held by Leena Calso Chua and Lynette O. Luna as Managing Editors, and Danton Remoto as News Editor.

Notable Columnists (Current)

The paper features a roster of respected columnists, including Persida Acosta, Leonor Briones, Norberto Gonzales, Orly Mercado, Salvador Panelo, Danton Remoto, Ricardo Saludo, Francisco Tatad, and Rigoberto Tiglao. These voices contribute diverse perspectives on current affairs.

Notable Columnists (Former)

Past contributors have included prominent figures such as Arnold Clavio, Ernesto Herrera, Rene Saguisag, and Ali Sotto, reflecting the paper's long history of engaging with influential public commentators.

Content and Editorial Stance

Editorial Alignment

The Manila Times is generally characterized as having a centre-right political alignment. Its editorial content aims to reflect this perspective while covering a broad spectrum of national and international news.

Language and Format

As the Philippines' oldest English-language daily newspaper, it utilizes the broadsheet format. This traditional layout allows for comprehensive coverage of news, opinion, and features, catering to an educated readership.

Special Supplements

Beyond its daily coverage, The Manila Times has introduced specialized content. An example is "The Moro Times," a monthly supplement launched in July 2006, designed to cater to a Muslim readership, demonstrating an effort to engage diverse communities.

Significant Events & Controversies

The 1999 Libel Suit

In 1999, The Manila Times faced a libel suit from President Joseph Estrada following a report concerning the National Power Corporation. The subsequent publication of an apology on the front page led to the resignation of several editors and writers, highlighting the sensitive nature of political reporting.

Recent Legal Challenges

The newspaper has continued to be involved in legal matters. In April 2025, House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe filed a cyberlibel suit against The Manila Times concerning a report about a document detailing a plot titled "Oplan Horus," allegedly involving members of the House of Representatives.

Digital Presence

The Manila Times maintains an active online presence through its official website, www.manilatimes.net. This digital platform extends its reach, allowing for broader dissemination of news and engagement with a global audience.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the The Manila Times Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, the content may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional journalism advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for consulting primary sources, official documentation, or engaging with professional media analysts. The historical context and reporting details are presented for academic understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Manila Times

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About The Manila Times ℹ️

📰 The Oldest Voice

🏢 Publication Details

📊 Circulation and Reach

🔗 Related Media

A Century of Headlines: Historical Journey 📜

🖋️ Founding and Early Years

🔄 Ownership Transitions

⏳ Closures and Rebirths

🏆 Growth and Recognition

Key Figures in Journalism 👥

🧑‍💼 Leadership and Editorship

✍️ Notable Columnists (Current)

📝 Notable Columnists (Former)

Content and Editorial Stance 📰

🌍 Editorial Alignment

🗣️ Language and Format

💡 Special Supplements

Significant Events & Controversies ⚖️

⚖️ The 1999 Libel Suit

🏛️ Recent Legal Challenges

🌐 Digital Presence

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About The Manila Times

The Oldest Voice

Publication Details

Circulation and Reach

Related Media

A Century of Headlines: Historical Journey

Founding and Early Years

Ownership Transitions

Closures and Rebirths

Growth and Recognition

Key Figures in Journalism

Leadership and Editorship

Notable Columnists (Current)

Notable Columnists (Former)

Content and Editorial Stance

Editorial Alignment

Language and Format

Special Supplements

Significant Events & Controversies

The 1999 Libel Suit

Recent Legal Challenges

Digital Presence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice